The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 made some changes to Social Security's laws about filing for retirement and spousal benefits. The age at which you decide to retire also affects your benefit.The expanded interactive checklist below will help members of the North Carolina Retirement Systems know how to approach the retirement process. North Carolina exempts all Social Security retirement benefits from income taxes. How to estimate your retirement benefit using the maximum payment option and an example that applies the other options for assumptions used. Social Security Number, Valid social security card or number. You can start receiving your Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. Understand Social Security benefits and retirement. Get a Social Security number. County Benefits Guide, Benefits Summary and Supplemental Information.